Join in the fun at special events and festivals around the globe

“Wow” moments are an integral part of any great travel adventure. These standout experiences become stitched in our memory, leaving us with a one-of-a-kind connection to a destination. To ensure you have your “wow” moment, why not embark on a tour that features a special event or festival? From the infectious party atmosphere of New Orleans during Carnival, to the regal pageantry of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, these special events add a whole new, exciting element to your getaway.

Special Events

Oberammergau

Every ten years, the tiny Bavarian hamlet of Oberammergau takes the world stage and hosts thousands of visitors to showcase the epic Passion Play, depicting the life and death of Jesus Christ. This is a once-every-decade event that takes place next in 2020, and is the fulfillment of a promise made to God by the residents of Oberammergau in 1634. Enjoy reserved seats to this incredible performance on several of our Collette tours.

The Passion Play’s History

Oberammergau was suffering from the Bubonic Plague. The citizens vowed that if God were to spare them, they would perform a Passion Play every ten years. They say not a single person fell victim to the Plague after that. Keeping their promise, the people of Oberammergau performed the first play in 1634 and have continued to do so throughout the centuries.

The Passion Play Theater

The first performance of the play took place in 1634 on a simple wooden stage in the village cemetery, above the graves of recent victims of the Plague. The play now takes place in Oberammergau's large open-air theater with covered seating so performances can take place whatever the weather. The auditorium seats around 4,500 people, with the comfortable seats set on an incline, providing everyone with a good view.

The Play’s Performers

Only residents who were born or have lived in Oberammergau for at least 20 years are allowed to participate. Children who participate in the play must have been born there. The men who live in Oberammergau begin to grow long hair and beards one year prior to the start of each Passion Play for authenticity.

Other Reasons to Visit Oberammergau

In addition to the moving Passion Play, Oberammergau is an idyllic part of Germany. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the town is steeped in charm with its gabled houses and captivating buildings painted with colorful frescos. From elaborate woodcarvings and handicrafts, to beautiful artwork and stunning theater, this hamlet bursts with creativity and is a must-see destination.

Heads up! The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is one of the most spectacular displays of color and sound. Close to 600 balloons navigated by 1,000 pilots launch into the sky at early morning, creating a colorful spectacle of aviation and artistry. Enjoy this magical event during your time in the diverse and scenic state of New Mexico.

History

The brainchild of Susan Johnson, a local radio promotional director, and Sid Cutter of Albuquerque’s Aerostat Ascension Association, the Balloon Fiesta started with a meager 13 balloons in 1972 in the corner of a mall parking lot. Initially, the fiesta was meant to serve as a birthday celebration for the radio station, but it steadily grew in popularity to become the largest balloon event in the world. The event is now held on a sprawling field boasting over 350 acres and attracts an international audience.

A Photographer’s Dream Subject

The Balloon Fiesta is considered one of the world’s most photographed events. It’s estimated that more than 25 million still photographs are taken during the event. Whether you consider yourself a hobbyist or are a professional photographer, this is a must-attend event for those who live for the perfect shot.

The Albuquerque Box

While the temperatures in Albuquerque during the October season make for decent flying conditions, the wind patterns are also important for balloonists to consider. Balloonists make use of the wind’s predictable “box” pattern, known as the Albuquerque Box. This way, they can safely navigate through the air and then land safely.

Gas Versus Hot Air Balloons

A gas balloon takes flight as a result of helium or hydrogen gas lifting the envelope (the part of the balloon that holds air or gas). A hot air balloon relies on the gentle lifting of the envelope from hot air and “burners” to heat and cool the air. Both gas and hot air balloon pilots say the winds should be below twelves miles per hour for optimal launching and landing conditions

Both the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Virginia International Tattoo bring men and women from around the world to showcase their impressive talents and military pomp and pageantry. From drum corps and piping bands to dancers and drill teams, the performances are a sight to behold. Learn more about this global military event.

The Meaning Behind the Tattoo

The term tattoo originated from the Dutch in the 17th century. When military drummers or trumpeters began to play, the innkeepers would yell out doe den tap toe (turn off the tap), meaning that beer taps would stop serving beer and that soldiers should return to their barracks. The term, along with the practice, continued to evolve. Today, the tattoo is known as an elaborate military performance.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

For over 60 years, the Tattoo has been dazzling thousands of audience members with impressive performances of military pageantry. Drill and display teams, drum corps, military bands and dancers from every corner of the globe perform at the Tattoo, set on the esplanade of the historic Edinburgh Castle. Since its inception back in 1950, not a single performance has been cancelled. Tickets to this tattoo are included on several Collette tours.

The Virginia International Tattoo

The Virginia International Tattoo is the largest event of its kind in the United States. The program, which began in 1977, is said to be “a salute to international friendship and an emotional call to the love of country in us all.” All branches of the military convene under the same roof to perform in military bands, precision drill teams, step dancers – even motorcycle stunt drivers! Tickets to this tattoo are included on several Collette tours.

Other Notable Military Tattoos

While the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Virginia International Tattoo are quite well-known internationally, there are several other tattoos around the world. In North America, the largest annual indoor military tattoo is Canada’s Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, which features over 2,000 performers from across the globe. And Asia, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Malaysia have their own military tattoos.

Calgary Stampede

Mingle with cowboys and take in wonderful western culture. Since 1912, this "Greatest Outdoor Show in the World" has hosted the world’s most competitive tournament-style rodeo, featuring barrel racing, bull riding and chuckwagon races in addition to country fairs, agricultural exhibits, music festivals, spectacular variety shows and fireworks. All this takes place during 10 days in July, drawing spectators from all over the world.

History

The tradition of the Calgary Stampede dates back to 1886, when the Calgary and District Agricultural Society held its first fair. It’s said that in 1912, the American promoter Guy Weadick organized his own rodeo and festival, known as the Stampede. He then returned to Calgary to organize the 1919 Victory Stampede as a way to honor soldiers returning from World War I. In 1923, it was decided that Weadick would merge his festival with the Calgary Industrial Exhibition, creating the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede.

Calgary’s Culture

Much of Calgary’s history and heritage is wrapped up in the Stampede. Calgary’s nickname is “Stampede City” and the city’s Canadian Football League team is called the Stampeders. While it’s certainly modernized, agriculture and the preservation of western culture has remained a central theme to the Stampede.

A True Community Effort

The Stampede is completely volunteer driven. In the 1920s the Exhibition had 130 volunteers and today, over 2,500 are reported to volunteer. During the Stampede, all the residents take part in the fun by decorating storefronts with cowboy themes, holding thousands of community pancake breakfasts and donning their best western clothing.

New Orleans is often hailed as the party capital of the U.S. From spontaneous brass band performances to all out celebrations of NOLA’s unique culture, New Orleans and its laissez the bon temps rouler (“let the good times roll”) attitude is easy to embrace. Immerse yourself in New Orleans’ exuberance and attend one of these festivals.

New Orleans Carnival

The New Orleans Carnival is the city’s lively kick off celebration of Mardi Gras. During this time, elaborate floats roll in and the uptown parades begin, bringing with them plenty of colorful fun. While Carnival and Mardi Gras are often thought of as the same event, they represent two different things. Carnival begins on January 6, marking the Epiphany (end of the Christian Christmas season) and ends at midnight on Mardi Gras, marking the start of the Christian Lent season.

New Orleans Jazz Fest

Experience the music, food and art that capture the flavor of Louisiana at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. Even though jazz is the focal point, many different genres are represented as internationally renowned artists come to perform at America’s “very best music festival.” While you might come for the music, you’ll stay for the delicious cuisine!

French Quarter Festival

Started in 1984, the French Quarter Festival has become a way to celebrate New Orleans’ major thoroughfare and cultural center, the French Quarter. For a few days in April, the district is taken over by local musicians, restaurants, and street vendors selling their wares. This free event is not to be missed if you are in New Orleans during the second week of April.

Whether you have a green thumb or just appreciate Mother Nature’s beautiful floral gifts, flowers are captivating organic creations. Across the world, people dedicate elaborate festivals to showcase flowers and all their unique shapes, sizes and colors. Enjoy one of these flower-themed festivals while on tour.

Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade

Celebrate the New Year at the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, a grand tradition since 1890. When the parade debuted, 2,000 citizens were on hand to witness history in the making. Today, nearly one million spectators line the parade route. In order for a float to qualify for entry into the parade, every inch must be covered with flowers or organic materials (bark, leaves, seeds.) As our guest, you will enjoy reserved seating at the parade for prime viewing.

Tulip Time Festival, Holland, Michigan

Come May in Holland, Michigan, over 5 million vibrantly-hued tulips festoon the gardens, main streets and historic homes of this charming city in celebration of the annual Tulip Time Festival. Since the late 1920s, the festival has served to celebrate Holland’s Dutch roots and the token flower of the Netherlands. On tour, you’ll be able to take in beautiful fields filled with these bold-colored beauties at the Veldheer Tulip Gardens and Windmill Island Gardens.

Keukenhof

The expansive tulip fields of Keukenhof Gardens is home to more than 7 million tulips. Spanning more than 70 acres, this picturesque park offers an idyllic scene with gorgeous flowers, tranquil ponds and shaded paths. See one of the most visited attractions in all of Europe on a tour through Holland.

Madeira Flower Festival

Come springtime in Funchal, Portugal, the island city is abloom with roses, anthuriums, birds of paradise and more. The main attraction of the festival is the “Wall of Hope,” a mural of flowers that covers the façade of Funchal’s Municipality Square. It’s said that each flower represents “a wish to come true, a vow of hope for a better world.” See this 600-year old magical festival while on tour in Portugal.

Other Special Events

Highclere Castle Visit

Lose yourself in the regal splendor of Highclere Castle, the stunning property where the BBC drama, Downton Abbey was filmed. Highclere is the home of the Earls of Carnarvon and has one of the world’s best private Egyptian collections. Enjoy full access to the castle, the Egyptian exhibition and the grounds on this visit.

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

See some of the country’s top cowboys compete at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. Be amazed by riveting rodeos, admire adorable farm animals, savor chuck wagon fare and enjoy a variety of live-entertainment at this event that attracts over one million attendees each year. This rodeo is a true delight for native Texans and first-time visitors alike.

Fiesta San Antonio with Texas Cavaliers River Parade

Enjoy reserved seats at the Fiesta Texas Cavaliers River Parade, one of the San Antonio riverfront’s most exciting events of the year. Sit along the banks of the river and watch as a parade of boats and barges adorned with hundreds of vibrantly colored flowers glide by. Experience this unique community event and delight in the fact that all the money raised goes to local children’s charities through the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation.

special HOLIDAY TOURS

Kick off your holidays feeling merry and bright.

Southern Charm Holiday

Find your holiday spirit with a drive through enchanting James Island County Park, decorated with 500,000 holiday lights. Visit Santa’s Village to shop or perhaps even roast marshmallows by an open fire. Enjoy Christmas caroling and afternoon refreshments on Jekyll Island.

Christmas in London

Nothing is quite as full of cheer as London during the holiday season. Whether you’re shopping through the Christmas markets for handmade gifts and colorful decorations or taking in the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon, this atmosphere will make you feel very festive indeed.

Spotlight on New York City Holiday

Shopping, sightseeing, entertainment and lots and lots of holiday cheer. New York City positively bursts with excitement for the holidays. From the lights and decorations to the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, New York City has all the merry you need.

Magical Christmas Markets

Christmas markets transform already charming European villages and cities into magical holiday wonderlands. Stroll through a market in Austria or Germany and feel the holiday spirit in the air as you admire handcrafted ornaments and gifts, perhaps with a warm cup of mulled wine in hand. A festive, merry-filled experience awaits.

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